National Times Bureau, April 7, 2025: India has signed a ₹2,385 crore deal to upgrade its Mi-17V5 helicopters with cutting-edge electronic warfare systems. The Ministry of Defence sealed the contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in Bengaluru, marking a major boost to indigenous defence manufacturing.
These Russian-origin helicopters, numbering 151, are the backbone of Indian Air Force operations in the Himalayas. Acquired between 2008 and 2013, they’ll now be fitted with modern EW suites to increase their survivability in hostile zones.
The new systems will be built largely with Indian components. That means local firms — including small and medium-sized ones — will be part of this massive project. The move fits right into India’s push for self-reliance under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make-in-India’ initiatives.
The Defence Ministry said the upgrade will strengthen India’s ability to defend its airspace while supporting homegrown innovation. These EW suites will help the helicopters detect, counter, and evade enemy threats during combat.
The contract falls under the ‘Buy (Indian-IDDM)’ category of India’s defence acquisition rules. It was signed in New Delhi in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.
Mi-17V5 helicopters are known for their power and agility. With a top speed of 250 km/h, cruise speed of 230 km/h, and range of 675 km, they play a vital role in troop movement, logistics, and search-and-rescue missions in difficult terrain.
With this deal, India takes a big step toward building smarter, stronger, and more self-reliant air defence systems.
India’s Mi-17V5 Choppers to Get Indigenous Combat Upgrades in ₹2,385 Crore Defence Deal
0 Comments 
